The NEW Zoo is in the final stages of arranging to bring in a male snow leopard from the Tulsa Zoo. Rajan is expected to join the zoo’s resident female Tami in her exhibit later this week. The nineteen-year-old female has lived alone since her elderly mate died last year. Twelve-year-old Rajan is also looking for love. Although the pair is beyond breeding age, the snow leopard Species Survival Program (SSP) leaders have recommended that they become companions. SSPs not only ensure that breeding within AZA zoos is responsible and the result of careful planning but also strive to meet the social needs of the animals. Although a new exhibit space for snow leopards is in the works, zoo staff decided it would be in the best interest of both cats to bring them together as soon as possible. The snow leopards will initially be separated by mesh gates and will be able to communicate and get to know each other on their own timetable.
